U.S. patent application number 13/278837 was filed with the patent office on 2013-04-25 for instrument reprocessors, systems, and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert P. Michaloski, Timothy J. Perlman, Sungwook Yang. Invention is credited to Robert P. Michaloski, Timothy J. Perlman, Sungwook Yang.
Application Number | 20130098407 13/278837 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47216402 |
Filed Date | 2013-04-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130098407 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Perlman; Timothy J. ; et
al. |
April 25, 2013 |
INSTRUMENT REPROCESSORS, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS
Abstract
An instrument reprocessor is disclosed. The instrument
reprocessor includes a basin having a rim located in an inclined
plane forming an acute angle with respect to a horizontal plane. At
least one nozzle is disposed in a plane substantially parallel to
the inclined plane. The at least one nozzle is configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
parallel to the inclined plane. A lid assembly is also disclosed.
The lid assembly may cover the basin in a close configuration.
Inventors: |
Perlman; Timothy J.;
(Pleasanton, CA) ; Yang; Sungwook; (Tustin,
CA) ; Michaloski; Robert P.; (Laguna Niguel,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Perlman; Timothy J.
Yang; Sungwook
Michaloski; Robert P. |
Pleasanton
Tustin
Laguna Niguel |
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47216402 |
Appl. No.: |
13/278837 |
Filed: |
October 21, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
134/36 ; 134/200;
134/34; 49/260 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 90/70 20160201;
A61B 2090/701 20160201; A61L 2202/24 20130101; A61B 1/123 20130101;
A61L 2/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/36 ; 49/260;
134/200; 134/34 |
International
Class: |
B08B 3/02 20060101
B08B003/02; B08B 3/08 20060101 B08B003/08; A47B 96/20 20060101
A47B096/20 |
Claims
1. A lid assembly, comprising: a frame comprising an opening,
wherein the frame includes a frame hinge at a first end, and
wherein the frame includes a guide along a first side; a lid that
covers the opening in a closed configuration, the lid comprising: a
first lid panel having first and second ends, wherein the first lid
panel is coupled at its first end to the frame hinge, and wherein
the first lid panel is pivotable relative to the frame about the
frame hinge; a second lid panel having first and second ends,
wherein the first lid panel and the second lid panel lie in a plane
when the lid is in the closed configuration; a lid hinge, wherein
the first lid panel is coupled to the lid hinge at its second end,
wherein the second lid panel is coupled to the lid hinge at its
first end, and wherein the first lid panel is pivotable relative to
the second lid panel about the lid hinge; a follower coupled to the
second lid panel proximate to the second end, wherein the follower
is movably engaged with the guide such that the follower follows
the guide as the lid moves from the closed configuration to an open
configuration; and a displacer coupled to the frame at a location
proximate to the lid hinge when the lid is in the closed
configuration, wherein the displacer displaces the lid hinge away
from the frame.
2. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the displacer comprises a
cam coupled to an actuator that moves the cam between a first
position and a second position, wherein in the first position the
cam does not displace the lid hinge, and wherein in the second
position the cam displaces the lid hinge.
3. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises one
of an electric motor or a solenoid.
4. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the guide comprises a
channel, and wherein the follower is movably engaged with the
channel.
5. The lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the displacer further
comprises a lock, wherein the lock includes a locked position and
an unlocked position, wherein in the locked position the lock
maintains the lid hinge proximate to the frame and the lid in the
closed configuration, and wherein in the unlocked position of the
lock the lid hinge is free to displace away from the frame.
6. The lid assembly of claim 5, wherein said lock comprises a slot
configured to receive the lid hinge and to maintain the lid hinge
relative to the frame when the lock is in the locked position.
7. The lid assembly of claim 6, further comprising a detent in the
slot and configured to inhibit relative movement between the lock
and the lid hinge.
8. An instrument reprocessor comprising: a basin comprising a
bottom surface, a rim, and a sidewall connecting the bottom surface
and the rim, wherein the rim is located in an inclined plane
forming an acute angle with respect to a horizontal plane; and at
least one lateral nozzle located on the sidewall and disposed in a
plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane, the at least
one lateral nozzle configured to discharge a stream into the basin
in a direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane.
9. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, wherein a portion of the
bottom surface is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the
horizontal plane and is substantially parallel to the inclined
plane, a portion of the bottom surface is substantially
perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and a portion of the bottom
surface is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.
10. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, wherein the acute angle
between the inclined plane and the horizontal plane is in the range
of 40 degrees to 50 degrees.
11. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, further comprising at
least one of: an orthogonal nozzle located on the bottom surface,
the orthogonal nozzle disposed in a plane substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane and configured to discharge a
stream into the basin in a direction substantially perpendicular to
the inclined plane; and an oblique nozzle located on the bottom
surface, the oblique nozzle disposed in a plane substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane and configured to discharge a
stream into the basin in a direction substantially parallel to the
horizontal plane.
12. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, further comprising a
multi-outlet nozzle located on the bottom surface, the multi-outlet
nozzle comprising: an orthogonal outlet disposed in a plane
substantially perpendicular to the inclined plane and configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane; and an oblique outlet disposed
in a plane substantially parallel to the horizontal plane and
configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a direction
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.
13. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, further comprising a lid
that covers the basin in a closed configuration, wherein, in the
closed configuration, the lid is disposed in an inclined plane that
is substantially parallel to the inclined plane in which the rim is
located.
14. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, wherein the basin is
configured to support a removable carrier positioned in the basin
and disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the inclined
plane.
15. The instrument reprocessor of claim 8, further comprising a
removable carrier, wherein the basin is configured to support the
removable carrier in the basin and disposed in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane, and wherein the
removable carrier is configured to position an endoscope in the
basin and disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the
inclined plane so that the endoscope forms an acute angle with
respect to the horizontal plane.
16. The instrument reprocessor of claim 15, further comprising an
endoscope contained in the removable carrier and positioned in the
basin in a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane so
that the endoscope forms an acute angle with respect to the
horizontal plane.
17. A method for reprocessing an instrument comprising: positioning
an instrument in a basin in an instrument reprocessor, the basin
comprising a rim located in an inclined plane forming an acute
angle with respect to a horizontal plane, the instrument positioned
in the basin in a plane substantially parallel to the inclined
plane and at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal plane;
covering the basin, thereby forming a closed basin chamber;
discharging at least one lateral stream into the basin in a
direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane; and
impinging the at least one lateral stream onto an outer surface of
the instrument to clean and/or disinfect the outer surface of the
instrument; wherein the instrument is not submerged in liquid in
the basin chamber.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: discharging an
orthogonal stream into the basin in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane, wherein the orthogonal stream
impinges onto outer surfaces of the instrument to clean and/or
disinfect the outer surfaces of the instrument; and/or discharging
an oblique stream into the basin in a direction substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane, wherein the oblique stream
impinges onto outer surfaces of the instrument to clean and/or
disinfect the outer surfaces of the instrument.
19. The method of claim 17, wherein the acute angle between the
inclined plane and the horizontal plane is in the range of 40
degrees to 50 degrees.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein positioning the instrument in
the basin comprises positioning a carrier containing the instrument
in the basin, the carrier positioned in the basin in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane and at an acute angle
with respect to the horizontal plane.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This disclosure generally relates to the reprocessing,
cleaning, sterilization, disinfection, and/or decontamination of
medical instruments.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In various circumstances, an endoscope can include an
elongate portion, or tube, having a distal end which can be
configured to be inserted into the body of a patient and, in
addition, a plurality of channels extending through the elongate
portion which can be configured to direct water, air, and/or any
other suitable fluid into a surgical site. In some circumstances,
one or more channels in an endoscope can be configured to guide a
surgical instrument into the surgical site. In any event, an
endoscope can further include a proximal end having inlets in fluid
communication with the channels and, in addition, a control head
section having one or more valves, and/or switches, configured to
control the flow of fluid through the channels. In at least one
circumstance, an endoscope can include an air channel, a water
channel, and one or more valves within the control head configured
to control the flow of air and water through the channels.
[0003] Decontamination systems can be used to reprocess
previously-used medical devices, such as endoscopes, for example,
such that the medical devices can be used again. A variety of
decontamination systems exist for reprocessing endoscopes. In
general, such systems may include at least one rinsing basin in
which an endoscope that is to be cleaned and/or disinfected can be
placed. The rinsing basin is commonly supported by a housing that
supports a circulation system of lines, pumps and valves for the
purpose of directing a cleaning and/or disinfecting agent into
and/or onto an endoscope which has been placed in the basin. During
the decontamination process, the channels within the endoscope can
be evaluated in order to verify that the channels are unobstructed.
In various embodiments, the circulation system can be fluidly
coupled to the endoscope channels by connectors which releasably
engage ports which can define the ends of the channels. Such
connectors can achieve a fluid-tight seal while attached to the
endoscope, yet they can be easily releasable at the conclusion of
the decontamination process.
[0004] The foregoing discussion should not be taken as a disavowal
of claim scope.
SUMMARY
[0005] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to a lid assembly. The lid
assembly comprises a frame comprising an opening, wherein the frame
includes a frame hinge at a first end, and wherein the frame
includes a guide along a first side. The lid assembly also
comprises a lid that covers the opening in a closed configuration.
The lid comprises a first lid panel having first and second ends,
wherein the first lid panel is coupled at its first end to the
frame hinge, and wherein the first lid panel is pivotable relative
to the frame about the frame hinge. The lid also comprises a second
lid panel having first and second ends, wherein the first lid panel
and the second lid panel lie in a plane when the lid is in the
closed configuration. The lid also comprises a lid hinge, wherein
the first lid panel is coupled to the lid hinge at its second end,
wherein the second lid panel is coupled to the lid hinge at its
first end, and wherein the first lid panel is pivotable relative to
the second lid panel about the lid hinge. The lid also comprises a
lid hinge follower coupled to the second lid panel proximate to the
second end, wherein the follower is movably engaged with the guide
such that the follower follows the guide as the lid moves from the
closed configuration to an open configuration. The lid assembly
also comprises a displacer coupled to the frame at a location
proximate to the lid hinge when the lid is in the closed
configuration, wherein the displacer displaces the lid hinge away
from the frame.
[0006] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to instrument reprocessors
comprising a basin. The basin may comprise a bottom surface, a rim,
and a sidewall connecting the bottom surface and the rim. The rim
of the basin may be located in an inclined plane forming an acute
angle with respect to the horizontal plane. At least one lateral
nozzle may be located on the sidewall of the basin and disposed in
a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane. The lateral
nozzle may be configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a
direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane.
[0007] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to a method for reprocessing
an instrument. The method comprises positioning an instrument in a
basin in an instrument reprocessor. The basin comprises a rim
located in an inclined plane forming an acute angle with respect to
a horizontal plane, and the instrument is positioned in the basin,
optionally contained in a carrier, in a plane substantially
parallel to the inclined plane and at an acute angle with respect
to the horizontal plane. The basin is covered, thereby forming a
closed basin chamber. At least one lateral stream is discharged
into the basin in a direction substantially parallel to the
inclined plane. The at least one lateral stream is impinged onto an
outer surface of the instrument to clean and/or disinfect the outer
surface of the instrument. The instrument is not submerged in
liquid in the basin chamber and, in some embodiments, there are
substantially no horizontal surfaces in the basin that can collect
liquid.
[0008] It is understood that the invention disclosed and described
in this specification is not limited to the embodiments summarized
in this Summary.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Various features and characteristics of the non-limiting and
non-exhaustive embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification may be better understood by reference to the
accompanying figures as follows.
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an instrument
reprocessor.
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the instrument
reprocessor of FIG. 1.
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a rear view of the instrument reprocessor
of FIG. 1.
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a right side view of the instrument
reprocessor of FIG. 1.
[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the instrument reprocessor
of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the instrument
reprocessor of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates basins of the instrument reprocessor of
FIG. 1.
[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates a view of the basins of FIG. 7 along
plane A-A as shown in FIG. 4.
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates a right sectional view of a basin of FIG.
7 along plane B-B.
[0019] FIG. 10 illustrates a left sectional view of a basin of FIG.
7 along plane C-C.
[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of a load carrier
positionable within one of the basins of the endoscope reprocessor
of FIG. 1.
[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of the load carrier of FIG.
11.
[0022] FIG. 13 illustrates a bottom view of the load carrier of
FIG. 11.
[0023] FIG. 14 illustrates a left side view of the load carrier of
FIG. 11.
[0024] FIG. 15 illustrates a front view of the load carrier of FIG.
11.
[0025] FIG. 16 illustrates a rear view of the load carrier of FIG.
11.
[0026] FIG. 17 is a front-right perspective view of an embodiment
including an instrument reprocessing basin and a bi-fold lid in a
closed configuration;
[0027] FIG. 18 is a rear-right perspective view of the basin and
the bi-fold lid of FIG. 17;
[0028] FIG. 19 is a right-side view of the basin and the bi-fold
lid of FIG. 17;
[0029] FIG. 20 is a left-side view of the basin and the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17;
[0030] FIG. 21 is a top-front view of the basin and the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17;
[0031] FIG. 22 is a bottom-rear view of the basin and the bi-fold
lid of FIG. 17;
[0032] FIG. 23 is a front-right perspective view of the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17 in a partially open configuration;
[0033] FIG. 24 is a rear-right perspective view of the basin and
the bi-fold lid of FIG. 17 illustrated in the configuration
depicted in FIG. 23;
[0034] FIG. 25 is a right-side view of the basin and the bi-fold
lid of FIG. 17 illustrated in the configuration depicted in FIG.
23;
[0035] FIG. 26 is a top-front view of the basin and the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17 illustrated in the configuration depicted in FIG.
23;
[0036] FIG. 27 is a front-right perspective view of the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17 in a fully open configuration;
[0037] FIG. 28 is a rear-right perspective view of the bi-fold lid
of FIG. 17 illustrated in the configuration depicted in FIG.
27;
[0038] FIG. 29 is a right-side view of the bi-fold lid of FIG. 17
illustrated in the configuration depicted in FIG. 27;
[0039] FIG. 30 is a top-front view of the bi-fold lid of FIG. 17
illustrated in the configuration depicted in FIG. 27;
[0040] FIG. 31 is a right side view of the basin and the bi-fold
lid of FIG. 17 illustrating a cam engaged with the bi-fold lid and
holding the lid in a locked position;
[0041] FIG. 32 is a partial right side view of the basin and the
bi-fold lid of Figure A illustrating the cam in an unlocked
position; and
[0042] FIG. 33 is a partial right side view of the basin and the
bi-fold lid of Figure A wherein the cam has displaced a portion of
the bi-fold lid upwardly.
[0043] FIG. 33a is a right side view of a cam.
[0044] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of various nozzles with respect to an inclined
plane.
[0045] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of various nozzles with respect to an inclined
plane.
[0046] FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram illustrating the initial
trajectory vector and the downstream trajectory of a stream
discharged from a nozzle.
[0047] FIG. 37 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of two nozzles with respect to two parallel inclined
planes.
[0048] FIG. 38 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of two nozzles with respect to two non-parallel
inclined planes.
[0049] FIG. 39 is a right-side cross-sectional view of an inclined
basin and nozzle assembly of an instrument reprocessor.
[0050] FIG. 40 is a right-perspective cross-sectional view of the
inclined basin and nozzle assembly shown in FIG. 39.
[0051] FIG. 41 is an inclined view of two inclined basin and nozzle
assemblies comprising a side-by-side dual-basin configuration,
wherein the inclined basin and nozzle assemblies are as shown in
FIGS. 39 and 40, and wherein the view is from a perspective that is
perpendicular to an inclined plane containing the inclined rim
portions of the basins.
[0052] FIG. 42 is a partial front-side view of the side-by-side
dual-basin configuration shown in FIG. 41, wherein the inclined
basin and nozzle assemblies are as shown in FIGS. 39 through
41.
[0053] FIG. 43 is a top-side view of the side-by-side dual-basin
configuration shown in FIGS. 41 and 42, wherein the inclined basin
and nozzle assemblies are as shown in FIGS. 39 through 42.
[0054] FIG. 44 is a right-side cross-sectional view of the inclined
basin and nozzle assembly shown in FIGS. 39 through 43, wherein the
basin contains an instrument carrier positioned in the basin and
disposed in a plane that is substantially parallel to the inclined
plane containing the inclined rim portion of the basin.
[0055] FIG. 45 is a right-perspective view of the basin, nozzle,
and carrier assembly shown in FIG. 44.
[0056] FIG. 46 is an inclined view of the basin, nozzle, and
carrier assembly shown in FIGS. 44 and 45, wherein the view is from
a perspective that is perpendicular to an inclined plane containing
the inclined rim portion of the basin.
[0057] FIG. 47 is a right-side view of the basin, nozzle, and
carrier assembly shown in FIGS. 44 through 46.
[0058] FIG. 48 illustrates an endoscope positioned within a carrier
in a basin.
[0059] This specification in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings illustrates various non-limiting and non-exhaustive
embodiments of the invention, which are not to be construed as
limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0060] Before explaining various embodiments in detail, it should
be noted that such embodiments are not limited in their application
or use to the details of construction and arrangement of parts
illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description. The
illustrative embodiments may be implemented or incorporated in
other embodiments, variations and modifications, and may be
practiced or carried out in various ways. For example, the
instrument reprocessors disclosed below are illustrative only and
are not meant to limit the scope or application thereof.
Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the terms and expressions
employed herein have been chosen for the purpose of describing the
illustrative embodiments for the convenience of the reader and are
not intended to limit the scope thereof.
[0061] Reference throughout the specification to "various
embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," or "an
embodiment", or the like, means that a particular feature,
structure, or characteristic described in connection with the
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus,
appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some
embodiments," "in one embodiment", or "in an embodiment", or the
like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily
all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular
features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described
in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in
part, with the features structures, or characteristics of one or
more other embodiments without limitation. Such modifications and
variations are intended to be included within the scope of the
present invention.
[0062] Various exemplary embodiments will now be described to
provide an overall understanding of the principles of the
structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and
methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments
are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary
skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods
specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying
drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope
of the various embodiments is defined solely by the claims. The
features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary
embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments.
Such modifications and variations are intended to be included
within the scope of the description and claims.
[0063] It will be appreciated that, for convenience and clarity,
spatial terms such as "upper", "lower", "upwards", "downwards",
"inwards", "outwards", "proximate", "distant", "horizontal",
"vertical", and the like, are used herein with respect to an
operator facing an instrument reprocessor or a component of an
instrument reprocessor. These terms are not intended to be limited
or absolute. Rather, they merely propose to explain a particular
embodiment from a particular perspective.
[0064] As used herein, the term instrument reprocessor refers to an
apparatus or system configured to wash, clean, decontaminate,
disinfect, and/or sterilize an instrument such as, for example, an
endoscope. As such, an instrument reprocessor may comprise washing
functionality, cleaning functionality, decontaminating
functionality, disinfecting functionality, sterilizing
functionality, or combinations of any of these functionalities.
Non-limiting examples of instrument reprocessors are described in
United States Patent Application Publications Nos. 2004/0118413;
2007/0154346; and 2007/0154371; and in U.S. Pat. No. 7,879,289;
which are incorporated by reference into this specification.
[0065] FIGS. 1-6 show an instrument reprocessor 1 according to at
least one embodiment of the present invention. The instrument
reprocessor 1 has a bottom pedestal 2 and a top portion 4. Further,
the instrument reprocessor 1 has a front side 10, back side 12,
right side 14, and left side 16 extending from a substantially
rectangular base 22. The sides 10, 12, 14, 16 may be connected by
corner sides 24, which may comprise rounded corners, for example,
as illustrated in an embodiment of FIG. 1. Alternatively, corner
sides 24 may have substantially square corners, for example. Though
the instrument reprocessor 1 shown in FIGS. 1-6 has a substantially
rectangular base 22, the invention is not limited to this
embodiment and base 22 may be any suitable shape, such as a
polygonal or rounded shape, for example.
[0066] In at least one embodiment, the instrument reprocessor 1
further comprises an angled side 20. Referring to FIGS. 1-6, front
side 10, back side 12, right side 14 and left side 16 may extend
upwards from base 22 to angled side 20. Base 22 may be
substantially horizontal; front side 10, back side 12, right side
14 and left side 16 may be substantially vertical. Angled side 20
may be angularly positioned relative to base 22 and sides 10, 12,
14, 16. In at least one embodiment, the angled side 20 may be
angled upwardly at an approximately 45 degree angle, for example.
In certain embodiments, the angled side 20 may be angled upwardly
at an approximately 30 degree angle, for example. In various
embodiments, the angled side 20 may be angled upwardly at an
approximately 70 degree angle, for example. In certain embodiments,
the angled side 20 may be angled upwardly at any suitable angle
between approximately thirty degrees and approximately seventy-five
degrees from base 22, for example.
[0067] In at least one embodiment, the front side 10 extends
upwardly from the base 22 to approximately one meter in height, for
example. In another embodiment, front side 10 contacts angled side
20 at approximately the operator's waist height. Angled side 20 may
extend wider or narrower than base 22. A connecting panel 30 may
connect front side 10 and angled side 20. Connecting panel 30 may
be horizontal, vertical, angled, straight and/or curved to connect
front side 10 of pedestal 2 to angled side 20 of top portion 4.
[0068] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 4, right side 14 has a bottom
side panel 32 and a top side panel 34. Top side panel 34 includes
an angled top edge 36. In a least one embodiment, angled top edge
36 is parallel to angled side 20. In various embodiments, referring
to FIG. 1, right side 14 is a mirror image of or symmetrical with
respect to, the left side 16. Accordingly, left side 16 of the
instrument reprocessor 1 may have a bottom side panel 32 and a top
side panel 34 that includes an angled top edge 36, which are mirror
image reflections of the panels 32, 34 and top edge 36 of right
side 14.
[0069] In various embodiments, the overall dimensions of the
instrument reprocessor 1 may allow the instrument reprocessor 1 to
move through doorways and hallways. The instrument reprocessor 1
may also comprise casters 50 and/or feet 52. Referring to FIGS.
2-6, base 10 may be supported by casters 50. In an embodiment shown
in FIGS. 2-6, the instrument reprocessor 1 has four casters 50.
Casters 50 may be lockable. In an unlocked position, casters 50 may
facilitate movement of the instrument reprocessor 1; in a locked
position, casters 50 may restrain movement of the instrument
reprocessor 1. Further, the instrument reprocessor 1 may have feet
52 extending from base 22. In an embodiment shown in FIGS. 2-6, the
instrument reprocessor 1 has four feet 52. Feet 52 may be lifted to
facilitate movement of the instrument reprocessor 1. Upon reaching
a resting location, feet 52 may be lowered to support the
instrument reprocessor 1 in a stationary position. Casters 50 and
feet 52 shown in FIGS. 2-6 illustrate a non-limiting embodiment of
the invention; the instrument reprocessor 1 may comprise fewer or
more castors 50 and/or feet 52 in any suitable combination and
arrangement to support the instrument reprocessor 1. Alternatively,
base 22 of the instrument reprocessor 1 may not have any casters
and/or legs wherein base 22 may sit directly on the floor, for
example.
[0070] In various embodiments, referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, front
side 10 of bottom pedestal 2 has two doors 46, for example. Doors
46 may provide the operator with a means to access the interior of
bottom pedestal 2. Alternatively, the instrument reprocessor 1
could have one door 46 or multiple doors 46 and the doors 46 could
be located on the front side 10, back side 12, right side 14, left
side 16, angled side 20, and/or base 22. Door 46 may have a handle
48 for ease of opening door 46. Further, the instrument reprocessor
1 may comprise multiple vents 40 and/or fans 42. Referring to FIGS.
1 and 2, the front side 10 may comprise multiple vents 40.
Referring to FIG. 3, back side 12 may comprise multiple vents 40.
The vent arrangements in FIGS. 1-3 are merely illustrative and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Additional
illustrative vent arrangements are shown in FIG. 4 (the right side
14 of the instrument reprocessor 1). Vents 40 may also be located
on angled side 20. Instrument reprocessor 1 may also comprise a
cooling fan 42. Referring to FIG. 3, a cooling fan 42 may be
located on the back side 12 of the instrument reprocessor 1.
Alternatively or additionally, a cooling fan 42 may be located on
front side 2, right side 6, left side 8, angled side 20, and/or
base 22 of the instrument reprocessor 1.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 7-10, the instrument reprocessor 1 may
further comprise at least one basin 100. In various embodiments,
angled side 20 comprises a frame 60 wherein a basin 100 can extend
into the interior of the instrument reprocessor 1 from frame 60
along a basin rim 104. Each basin 100 may be defined by a basin
cavity 102 which can comprise basin sides 106, basin bottom 108,
basin drain 110, and basin drain flange 112. Each basin 100 may
further comprise a plurality of nozzles 150, 152, 154 and ports
170. A load carrier or basket 220, as illustrated in an exemplary
embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-16, may fit within a basin 100. Basin
100 and load carrier 220 are described in greater detail below. In
the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-10, the instrument
reprocessor 1 comprises two basins 100 wherein a load carrier 220
may be placed within each basin 100. In use, an instrument 200,
such as an endoscope, for example, may be placed within a load
carrier 220 and the load carrier 220 may fit within basin 100 of
the instrument reprocessor 1. Referring to FIG. 48, an endoscope
101 is illustrated as being positioned within a carrier 220 which
is positioned in a basin 100. In various embodiments, the endoscope
101 may comprise various portions or components 101a, 101b, and/0r
101c which can be supported within the carrier 220. The operation
of the instrument reprocessor 1 is described in greater detail
below.
[0072] Frame 60 may have a frame hinge 312 and a guide 322.
Referring to FIGS. 7-10, a frame hinge 312 may be coupled to frame
60 near the upper edge of frame 60. In one embodiment, frame 60 may
also have a guide 322 extending along a portion of basin rim 104.
In another embodiment, frame 60 may comprise two or more guides
which extend along frame 60 on opposite sides of basin 100 from
near the upper edge of frame 60 to near the lower edge of frame 60.
Instrument reprocessor 1 may also comprise a bi-fold lid assembly
300 or multiple bi-fold lid assemblies 300, described in greater
detail below. Bi-fold lid assembly 300 may be hinged to frame 60 of
angled side 20 at frame hinge 312. The right side of frame 60 may
be the mirror image reflection of the left side of frame 60.
Accordingly, the instrument reprocessor 1 may have a first bi-fold
lid assembly 300 on the right side of frame 60 and a second bi-fold
lid assembly 300 on the left side of frame 60, each covering a
different basin 100.
[0073] The instrument reprocessor 1 comprises a bi-fold lid
assembly 300 with an upper lid panel 302 and a lower lid panel 304.
Upper lid panel 302 may be hingably connected to lower lid panel
304. The bi-fold lid assembly 300 is described in greater detail
below.
[0074] As outlined above, each basin 100 may be positioned
underneath a bi-fold lid assembly 300 in top portion 4. When upper
lid panel 302 and lower lid panel 304 are closed, basin 100 may be
hidden from view. In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 1, upper
lid panel and/or lower lid panel 302 may comprise a transparent
pane or panes 306 which reveal or partially reveal basin 100 when
lid panels 302, 304 are closed. Further, basin 100 may be revealed
when lid panels 302, 304 are open. In at least one embodiment, the
instrument reprocessor 1 may have two bi-fold lid assemblies 300;
right bi-fold lid assembly 300 may be a mirror image reflection of
left bi-fold lid assembly 300. A first basin 100 may be positioned
behind the right bi-fold lid assembly 300 and a second basin 100
may be positioned behind the left bi-fold lid assembly 300.
[0075] In another embodiment, the instrument reprocessor 1 may
further comprise a control panel assembly 80. Referring to FIGS.
1-5, control panel assembly 80 may be located on frame 60 of angled
side 20. Alternatively, control panel assembly 80 could be located
on the front side 10, back side 12, right side 14, left side 16,
and/or base 22 of the instrument reprocessor 1. In an alternative
embodiment, control panel assembly 80 may be positioned at a
control station which is remote with respect to the instrument
reprocessor 1 and may communicate with the instrument reprocessor 1
by a wired and/or wireless connection. Control panel assembly 80
may have an input panel 84. In at least one embodiment, referring
again to FIG. 1, control panel assembly 80 may have multiple input
panels 84. Further, control panel assembly 80 may have a protective
cover or multiple protective covers 82 to operably hide and reveal
the input panel or panels 84. Control panel assembly 80 may also
comprise a computer or video screen 86. In another embodiment,
video screen 86 may be located on front side 10, back side 12,
right side 14, left side 16, angled side 20, and/or base 22 of the
instrument reprocessor 1. In one embodiment, screen 86 may not be
located on control panel assembly 80. In various embodiments,
screen 86 may provide a visual indication to the operator of the
instrument reprocessing program (e.g., cleaning cycle, washing
cycle, disinfection cycle, or sterilization cycle) and/or the
conditions inside the instrument reprocessor 1. In various
embodiments, control panel assembly 80 and screen 86 are positioned
at a height that is easily viewable and accessible by the
instrument reprocessor operator. The control panel assembly 80 and
screen 86 are described in greater detail below.
[0076] As described above, the instrument reprocessor 1 may
comprise a basin 100 or a plurality of basins 100. In at least one
embodiment, referring to FIGS. 7-10, a first basin 100 may be
positioned behind right bi-fold lid assembly 300 and a second basin
100 may be positioned behind left bi-fold lid assembly 300. As also
described above, the arrangement and/or components of the first and
second basins 100 may be substantially identical, as illustrated in
embodiments shown in FIGS. 7-10. Alternatively, the arrangement
and/or components of basins 100 may be mirror image reflections of
each other. Referring to FIGS. 7-10, basins 100 further comprise a
plurality of nozzles 150, 152, 154 and ports 170, which are
described in greater detail below. In various circumstances, first
basin 100 may comprise a different combination of nozzles 150, 152,
154 and/or ports 170 than second basin 100.
[0077] As described above, referring to FIG. 8, basin 100 extends
into the instrument reprocessor 1 from frame 60 wherein frame 60
borders basin 100 along basin rim 104. As also described above, the
basin cavity 102 is defined by basin sides 106, basin bottom 108,
basin drain 110, and basin drain flange 112. Basin sides 106 may
include a basin corner 122 wherein, referring to FIG. 8, basin
corner 122 may be rounded, for example. Alternatively, basin corner
122 may be square, for example. In various embodiments, basin sides
106 may comprise a step 130 or a plurality of steps 130 wherein
each step 130 may have a planar support surface 132 projecting from
basin sides 106. As described in greater detail below, a load
carrier 220 may fit within a basin 100 wherein a portion of a load
carrier 220 may rest on support surfaces 132 of steps 130. In
certain embodiments, basin cavity 102 may narrow from basin rim 104
to basin bottom 108.
[0078] Basin 100 may also comprise a protrusion or protrusions 140
extending from basin sides 106. According to one embodiment,
referring to FIG. 8, basin 100 may have two protrusions 140 on
opposite sides of basin 100--one extending from the right basin
wall 124 and the other extending from the left basin wall 126. The
opposite protrusions 140 may extend towards each other into basin
cavity 102. Basin 100 may also have a corner nozzle 150. According
to another preferred embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, basin 100 has
four corner nozzles 150, one in each basin corner 122. Corner
nozzle 150 may protrude from basin sides 106 between basin rim 104
and step 130. In an embodiment of the invention, corner nozzle 150
protrudes diagonally into basin cavity 102. Alternatively, basin
100 may not comprise a corner nozzle 150.
[0079] Basin 100 may also have a side nozzle 152. Side nozzle 152
may be positioned on protrusion 140. FIG. 7 illustrates side nozzle
152 on protrusion 140. Alternatively, side nozzle 152 may be
positioned on basin side walls 106. Referring again to FIG. 7, side
nozzle 152 may positioned on the side of protrusion 140 to
diagonally project across basin cavity 102. Side nozzle 152 may be
directed parallel to one of the corner nozzles 150. Alternatively,
side nozzle 152 could direct straight across the basin 100 or at a
different angle than corner nozzles 150. In various embodiments,
side nozzle 152 may be positioned on the basin sides 106 between
the basin rim 104 and step 130. In another embodiment, basin 100
may not comprise a side nozzle 152 or may comprise a plurality of
side nozzles 152.
[0080] Referring again to FIGS. 7-10, basin 100 may further
comprise a bottom nozzle 154 or a plurality of bottom nozzles 154.
Bottom nozzle 154 may extend from basin bottom 108 into basin
cavity 102. Bottom nozzle 154 may extend perpendicular to angled
side 20 or may angle towards basin walls 106. In various
embodiments, referring to FIG. 8, the instrument reprocessor 1 has
two or more bottom nozzles 154. In at least one embodiment, bottom
nozzles 154 may comprise a shared stem 156 protruding from basin
bottom 108. A first bottom nozzle 154 may veer from shared stem 156
and bottom nozzles 154 may extend from basin bottom 108 in a
Y-configuration, as illustrated in an embodiment shown in FIGS.
7-10. Alternatively, first and second bottom nozzles 154 may both
veer from shared stem 156. In still another embodiment, bottom
nozzles may veer from shared stem 156 in a T-configuration. In
another embodiment, bottom nozzles 154 may not comprise a shared
stem 156. In yet another embodiment, bottom nozzles may extend into
basin cavity 102 in parallel. In use, as described in greater
detail below, corner nozzle(s) 150, side nozzle(s) 152 and/or
bottom nozzle(s) 154 direct disinfectant, for example, towards
surgical instrument 200 placed in load carrier 220 positioned
within basin 100.
[0081] Basin 100 may also comprise a plurality of ports 170.
Referring to FIG. 8, ports 170 protrude from protrusion 140 on the
right basin wall 124 and left basin wall 126. In another
embodiment, referring to FIG. 8, basin 100 comprises eight ports
170. In use, as described in greater detail below, flexible tubes
can connect ports 170 to channels defined in a surgical instrument.
Any port or ports 170 not connected to a channel 204 by a flexible
tube 214 may be sealed with a port cap. During an operating cycle
of the instrument reprocessor 1, disinfectant is flushed from ports
170 through flexible tubes 214 and into the surgical instrument. In
various alternative embodiments, basin 100 may comprise any
suitable number of ports 170. Additionally, in various embodiments,
ports 170 can be positioned on basin sides 106 within an accessible
range of the instrument. Conduits and connectors used to sealingly
engage flexible conduits to an endoscope are described in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/998,459, entitled FLUID CONNECTOR
FOR ENDOSCOPE REPROCESSING SYSTEM, which was filed on Aug. 29, 2011
and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/998,458, entitled QUICK
DISCONNECT FLUID CONNECTOR, which was also filed on Aug. 29, 2011,
the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference into
this specification.
[0082] Basin cavity 102 may be further defined by a drain flange
112. Referring to FIG. 8, drain flange 112 extends between basin
bottom 108 and basin sides 106. Drain flange 112 is preferably
positioned in the lower portion of basin 100 and comprises a
downward sloping surface towards drain 110. In various embodiments,
drain 110 is positioned in the lowest portion of basin 100. In use,
as described in greater detail below, fluid from nozzles 150, 152,
154 and the instrument channels may be emptied from basin 100 by
passing through drain 110 into a recirculation system of the
instrument reprocessor 1.
[0083] As described above, the instrument reprocessor 1 may also
comprise a load carrier or basket 220 for holding a surgical
instrument, such as an endoscope, for example, within a basin 100
of the instrument reprocessor 1. Referring to FIGS. 11-16, load
carrier 220 may be a lattice mesh of support rods 222 wherein the
support rods 222 may be comprised of any suitable material capable
of withstanding the conditions within the instrument reprocessor 1.
Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include stainless
steels such as, for example, 300 series stainless steels. In
various embodiments, the distance between latticed support rods 222
is maximized in order to minimize the surface area of contact
between the surgical instrument and load carrier 220. In at least
one embodiment, referring again to FIG. 11, support rods 222 may
have a circular cross section, for example, to minimize the surface
area of contact between the surgical instrument 200 and load
carrier 220. Though support rods 222 of load carrier 220 shown in
FIGS. 8-13 have a circular cross section, the invention is not
limited to this embodiment and support rods 222 may have any other
suitable cross section, such as oval or polygonal cross sections,
for example.
[0084] Support rods 222 may form a carrier bottom 224 and carrier
side 226. Carrier side 226 may extend from the perimeter of carrier
bottom 224. Referring again to FIG. 11, a support rod 222 may bend
between the carrier bottom 224 and carrier side 226. Referring to
FIG. 13, support rods 222 may bend along a radius of curvature R
between the carrier bottom 224 and carrier side 226. The radius of
curvature R may be uniform with respect to all of the support rods
222 or it may be different.
[0085] Load carrier 220 may also have an upper rim 230. In various
embodiments, referring to FIG. 11, upper rim 230 may incline
upwardly from carrier bottom 224 and inwardly from carrier side
226. In some circumstances, upper rim 230 may provide a barrier
between a surgical instrument positioned within the load carrier
220 and basin 100. In use, as described in greater detail below,
the configuration of the upper rim 230 may require that the
operator remove the surgical instrument from the load carrier 220
in a manner which reduces the possibility that the instrument may
contact the basin 100 and/or another portion of the instrument
reprocessor 1. In certain circumstances, the upwards and inwards
incline of the upper rim 230 may induce the operator to lift the
surgical instrument away from the basin sides 106 when removing the
surgical instrument from the load carrier 220.
[0086] In various embodiments, load carrier 220 may comprise a
necked portion 232. Referring to FIGS. 11-16, support rods 222 can
form a narrower carrier bottom 224a and a shorter carrier side 226a
in necked portion 232. In various embodiments, the load carrier 220
may comprise one necked portion 232 or more than one necked portion
232. Referring to FIGS. 11-14, load carrier 220 comprises a necked
portion 232 on a first side of load carrier 220 and a second necked
portion 232 on a second side of load carrier 220 opposite to the
first side. Load carrier 220 may further comprise a longitudinal
rod 234 which may intersect support rods 222 along carrier side
226a of necked portion 232 at or near rod end 236 and may intersect
support rods 222 outside the necked portion 232 intermediate to the
rod end 236 and carrier bottom 224. Referring to FIG. 12,
longitudinal rod 234 may angle inwards from the carrier side 226 in
necked portion 232.
[0087] In various embodiments, further to the above, the necked
portions 232 can be sized and configured to accommodate protrusion
or protrusions 140 of a basin 100 when the load carrier 220 is
positioned within a basin 100. In certain embodiments, the inwards
angle of longitudinal rod 234 may complement the contour of
protrusion 140. Further, the shorter carrier side 226 may allow the
operator to route the flexible supply tubes, discussed above, from
the ports 170 on basin sides 106 into the load carrier 220 such
that the flexible tubes can be attached to the instrument, such as
an endoscope, for example, positioned therein. In various
embodiments, the necked portions 232 on load carrier 220 can
position the surgical instrument within the load carrier 220 in a
position which is spaced apart from the basin sides 106.
[0088] In various embodiments, the load carrier 220 may comprise
one or more support legs 240. In an exemplary embodiment, referring
to FIGS. 11-16, a support leg 240 can extend across the carrier
bottom 224 and can curve downwardly away from the carrier bottom
224. In at least one embodiment, each support leg 240, as
exemplified in an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, can curve away
from the bottom 224 on both sides of the load carrier 220 and can
comprise two contact points 244. Alternatively, side leg 240 may
not comprise a contact point 244, may comprise one contact point
244, or may comprise more than two contact points 244. Referring
again to FIG. 11, load carrier 220 may comprise two or more side
legs 240. As illustrated in FIG. 11, side leg 240 may comprise a
wire loop welded to the bottom 224. In various embodiments, side
leg 240 may comprise the same material as the latticed support rods
222. In use, as described in greater detail below, the side legs
240 can contact basin sides 106 to support a load carrier 220 when
the load carrier 220 is positioned within a basin 100.
[0089] Load carrier 220 may also comprise at least one front leg
242. In an exemplary embodiment, referring to FIGS. 11-16, front
leg 242 extends from the carrier bottom 224 at the proximate end of
load carrier 220. Front leg 242, as exemplified in FIG. 11,
provides one contact point 244 when the load carrier 220 is
positioned within a basin 100. Alternatively, front leg 242 may not
comprise a contact point 244 or may comprise more than one contact
point 244. As shown in an embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, front
leg 242 may comprise a loop of material. In various embodiments,
front leg 242 may comprise the same material as the latticed
support rods 222. In use, as described in greater detail below,
front leg 242 can contact a proximal basin side 106 to support the
load carrier 220 when the load carrier 220 is positioned within the
basin 100. When load carrier 220 is positioned within basin 100 as
exemplified in an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7-10, the
proximate end of load carrier 220 is tilted downwards relative to
the distant end of load carrier 220. Accordingly, the front leg 242
can hold the instrument positioned within the tilted load carrier
220 away from proximate basin side 106.
[0090] In various embodiments, load carrier 220 may comprise one or
more spray disruption minimizers. In at least one embodiment, a
spray disruption minimizer may comprise a window 250 in a corner of
the load carrier 220. In at least one such embodiment, a window 250
can be defined by a top rod 252 which can intersect support rods
222 extending upwardly along the sides of the carrier. In use, as
described in greater detail below, the window 250 may permit a
fluid to be sprayed onto the instrument positioned within the load
carrier from a nozzle, such as nozzles 150 or 152, for example,
without disrupting, or at least minimizing the disruption of, the
spray.
[0091] In various embodiments, further to the above, the load
carrier 220 may also comprise a window defined in the bottom 224
configured to permit a spray of fluid therethrough. In at least one
embodiment, the window can be at least partially defined by an
elongate loop 260 defined in the carrier bottom 224. Referring to
FIG. 11, elongate loops 260 may extend outwardly from a support rod
222. Similar to the above, the elongate loop 260 may be configured
to minimize spray disruption from a nozzle, such as bottom nozzles
154, for example.
[0092] Optionally, load carrier 220 may comprise an instrument
position guide 270. Instrument position guide 270 may be defined
within, integrally formed with, and/or fixedly attached to the
carrier bottom 224. According to multiple embodiments, instrument
position guide 270 may be defined in the load carrier 220 or
attached to the underside of load carrier 220. In at least one
embodiment, instrument position guide 270 may be comprised of the
same material as the latticed support rods 222. In various
embodiments, the instrument position guide 270 provides the
operator with a template for positioning a surgical instrument,
such as an endoscope, in the load carrier 220. In use, as described
in greater detail below, the operator positions the instrument head
202 in a Y-joint 274 and aligns the rest of instrument with the
instrument position guide 270. In various embodiments, instrument
position guide 270 may guide the operator to position the endoscope
in a manner which optimally, or at least suitably, aligns the
endoscope relative to the spray nozzles 150, 152, and/or 154, for
example. In certain embodiments, the instrument position guide 270
can guide the operator to appropriately distribute the weight of
the endoscope in the load carrier 220 and/or arrange the endoscope
in an ergonomically preferred position.
[0093] Further to the above, instrument position guide 270 may
comprise a ring 272 which may comprise arc segments and/or straight
segments and may comprise arc segments with consistent and/or
varying radii of curvature. Ring 272 may be in the proximate part
of the carrier bottom 224. Instrument position guide 270 may also
comprise a Y-joint 274 extending from ring 272. Referring to FIG.
12, in at least one embodiment, Y-joint 274 may extend diagonally
towards the distal part of carrier bottom 224. Instrument position
guide 270 may further comprise an extension 276. Extension 276 may
extend from Y-joint 274 towards the opposite side of the carrier
bottom 224.
[0094] In various embodiments, load carrier 220 may further
comprise posts 280 extending upwards from the carrier bottom 224. A
plurality of posts 280 may be adjacent to the instrument position
guide 270. Additionally or alternatively, a plurality of posts 280
may be positioned around the circumference of carrier bottom 224.
Referring to an embodiment of FIG. 11, three posts 280 are adjacent
to Y-joint 274 and four posts 280 are positioned around the
circumference of the carrier bottom 224. The arrangement of posts
280 in FIG. 11 is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit
the scope of the invention. Posts 280 may comprise loops of
material. Further, posts 280 may comprise the same material as the
latticed support rods 222. Referring to FIG. 11, posts 280 may be
narrow, such as those posts 280 adjacent to Y-joint 274, and/or
wider in various alternative embodiments.
[0095] During use, as described in greater detail below, posts 280
may guide and constrain instrument 200 in a preferred position in
load carrier 220. Posts 280 may guide instrument into a position
that retains instrument 200 away from basin walls 106. In various
embodiments, posts 280 correspond with instrument position guide
270. Posts 280 may constrain instrument in a position that
appropriately distributes the weight of the instrument 200 in the
load carrier 220 and/or may facilitates easy connection of flexible
tubes 214 to ports 170.
[0096] In use, the operator may approach the instrument reprocessor
1 from the front. In another preferred embodiment, as described
above, pedestal 2 may reach to approximately the operator's waist
height, for example, and angled side 20 may extend from
approximately the operator's waist height upwards at an angle. As
described above, in various embodiments, angled side 20 may be
positioned upwards at approximately forty-five degrees. The height
of pedestal 2 and the angle of angled side 20 may be ergonomically
designed to improve the operator's ease of use. In another
embodiment, the height of pedestal 2 and the angle of angled side
20 may position the bi-fold lid assembly 300 and the basins 100
within the operator's unstrained reach.
[0097] The operator may open bi-fold lid assembly 300 and place
surgical instrument 200 in load carrier 220. In various
embodiments, the operator can position the head of the endoscope
above Y-joint 274 of the instrument position guide 270 and align
the rest of the endoscope with ring 272 and extension 276 such that
the posts 280 can support the endoscope within load carrier 220. As
described above, the operator may then connect flexible tubes to
the channels of the endoscope. The operator may then close bi-fold
lid assembly 300. The operator may provide input to control panel
assembly 80 wherein screen 86 can provide a visual indication of
the instrument reprocessing program and/or the conditions inside
the instrument reprocessor 1 to the operator. In various
embodiments, control panel assembly 80 and screen 86 are positioned
at a height that is easily viewable and accessible to the
operator.
[0098] In various embodiments, the screen 86 may comprise a
graphical user interface (GUI). The GUI may be configured for
input/output communication to control/monitor one or more basins
comprising an instrument reprocessor. For example, in embodiments
comprising two basins, a GUI may be configured for simultaneous
input/output communication to control/monitor both basins. In other
embodiments comprising two basins, a GUI may be configured to allow
the selection of one of the basins, wherein once a basin is
selected, the GUI is configured for input/output communication to
control/monitor the selected basin.
[0099] According to the operator's input, the instrument
reprocessor 1 may run an instrument reprocessing program, which may
comprise one or more of washing, cleaning, decontaminating,
disinfecting, and/or sterilizing an instrument, such as, for
example, an endoscope. Upon completion, the operator may open
bi-fold lid assembly 300, as described in greater detail below, and
remove the endoscope from load carrier 220. Before removing
instrument 200, the operator may disconnect flexible tubes 214 from
instrument channels 204. As discussed above, upper rim 230 of load
carrier 220 can encourage the operator to carefully remove the
endoscope from load carrier 220 to prevent the endoscope from
contacting the sidewalls of the basin and possibly contaminating
the endoscope. Upper rim 230 may induce the operator to confine the
reprocessed instrument 200 and lift instrument 200 upwards and out
of load carrier 220 before drawing the instrument 200 forward and
out of the instrument reprocessor 1. Lifting the instrument 1
upwards before drawing the instrument 1 forward may prevent part of
instrument 200 from contacting basin 100 and will reduce the
likelihood of contamination. After removing the reprocessed
instrument 200 from the instrument reprocessor 1, the operator may
close bi-fold lid assembly 300, as described in greater detail
below.
[0100] During a reprocessing program, fluid comprising one or more
of water, an alcohol solution, a detergent, a disinfectant
solution, and/or a sterilant, for example, may spray or otherwise
discharge from corner nozzles 150, side nozzles 152, and/or bottom
nozzles 154. Additionally, fluid may flush from ports 170 through
the flexible tubes and into the channels defined in the endoscope.
Sprayed and flushed fluid may then drain into basin 100. More
specifically, fluid may drain along basin sides 106, basin bottom
108, and drain flange 112. In various embodiments, drain 110 is
located in a lower portion of basin 100. Drain flange 112 may slope
downwards towards drain 110. Fluid may then flow through drain 110
and the instrument reprocessor 1 may recycle and reuse drained
fluid or suitably dispose of the fluid after a single reprocessing
cycle.
[0101] As discussed above, the instrument reprocessor 1 can
comprise at least one basin and at least one lid, wherein the lid
can be configured to cover the basin while a medical instrument,
such as an endoscope, for example, is being cleaned, sterilized,
and/or otherwise disinfected within the basin. An embodiment of a
bi-fold lid 300 is illustrated in FIGS. 17-22. The bi-fold lid 300
includes an upper lid panel 302 and a lower lid panel 304. In
various embodiments, the upper lid panel 302 optionally includes a
window pane 306 and the lower lid panel 304 optionally includes a
window pane 308. In use, the lid 300 can be moved between a closed
position, illustrated in FIG. 17, and an open position, illustrated
in FIG. 27. In the closed position of the bi-fold lid 300 (FIG.
17), the bi-fold lid 300 can be sealed against the frame 60
surrounding the basin, as described in greater detail below. In
various embodiments, as also described in greater detail below, the
upper lid panel 302 can be hingedly connected to the frame 60 of
the instrument reprocessor 1. In at least one embodiment, the frame
60 can comprise bearings 382a and 382b which can be configured to
rotatably attach the upper lid panel 302 to the frame 60. More
specifically, in at least one embodiment, the instrument
reprocessor 1 can further comprise a shaft 358 which can be
rotatably supported by the bearings 382a, 382b wherein the upper
lid panel 302 can also comprise one or more bearings, such as
bearings 380a and 380b, for example, which are rotatably attached
to the shaft 358. In various embodiments, the bearings 380a, 380b,
382a, and/or 382b may comprise any suitable type of bearings, such
as journal bearings, sleeve bushings, and/or pillow blocks, for
example. In any event, as a result of the above, the bearings 382a,
382b and the shaft 358 can support an end of the upper lid panel
302 and the bearings 380a, 380b can permit relative rotational
movement of the upper lid panel 302 about the shaft 358.
[0102] The upper lid panel 302 also can be hingedly connected to
the lower lid panel 304. In various embodiments, the upper lid
panel 302 can be connected to the lower lid panel 304 by pins 340a
and 340b which can permit relative rotation between the upper lid
panel 302 and the lower lid panel 304 about the pins 340a and 340b.
In at least one embodiment, the pin 340a can extend through a
portion of the upper lid panel 302 and the lower lid panel 304 on a
first side thereof and, similarly, the pin 340b can extend through
the upper lid panel 302 and the lower lid panel 304 on a second
side thereof. In at least one such embodiment, the upper lid panel
302 can comprise a first hinge arm 404a extending from the first
side of the upper lid panel 302 which, one, can comprise a pin
aperture aligned with a pin aperture in a second hinge arm 402a
extending from the lower lid panel 304 and, two, can be rotatably
pinned to the second hinge arm 402a by pin 340a. Similarly, the
upper lid panel 302 can comprise a second hinge arm 404b extending
from the second side of the upper lid panel 302 which, one, can
comprise a pin aperture aligned with a pin aperture in a second
hinge arm 402b extending from the lower lid panel 304 and, two, can
be rotatably pinned to the second hinge arm 402b by pin 340b.
[0103] As described above, the upper lid panel 302 can comprise a
first end rotatably mounted to the shaft 358 and a second, or
opposite, end rotatably mounted to the lower lid panel 304. In at
least one such embodiment, the second end of the upper lid panel
302 can be rotatably mounted to a first end of the lower lid panel
304. Further to the above, the lower lid panel 304 can comprise a
second end which is slidably mounted to the frame 60. Referring to
FIGS. 17 and 27, the second end of the lower lid panel 304 can be
slid along a path between a first position in which the lid 300 is
closed and a second position in which the lid 300 is open. In
certain embodiments, the lower lid panel 304 can comprise one or
more followers, such as followers 378a and 378b, for example, which
can be configured to slide within channels, guides, and/or slots
extending along the sides of the basin. In at least one embodiment,
the frame 60 can comprise a first guide rail 376a extending along a
first side of the basin and a second guide rail 376b extending
along a second side of the basin, wherein the follower 378a, which
can be positioned on the first side of the lower lid panel 304, can
be slidably engaged with the first guide rail 376a and the follower
378b, which can be positioned on the second side of the lower lid
panel 304, can be slidably engaged with the second guide rail 376b.
In various embodiments, the guide rails 376a, 376b and the
followers 378a, 378b can comprise co-operating geometries which can
be configured to permit the followers 378a, 378b to slide
longitudinally along the guide rails 376a, 376b, respectively and,
yet, limit movement of the followers 378a, 378b in directions which
are transverse to the longitudinal direction, or axes, of the guide
rails 376a, 376b.
[0104] In various embodiments, further to the above, the lower lid
panel 304 can be slid upwardly toward the top of the basin. In such
circumstances, the lower lid panel 304 can rotate from a first, or
closed, position in which it lies in a plane which is parallel, or
at least substantially parallel, to a plane which includes the
guide rails 376a and 376b into a second position in which the lower
lid panel is oriented in a direction which is transverse to these
planes. To accommodate such movement of the lower lid panel 304,
the followers 378a, 378b may be rotatable relative to the generally
planar cover portion of the lower lid panel 304. In at least one
such embodiment, the lower lid panel 304 can include bearings 374a
and 374b and a shaft 372 supported by the bearings 374a and 374b,
wherein the followers 378a, 378b can be mounted to opposite ends of
the shaft 372. In various embodiments, the followers 378a, 378b can
be fixedly mounted to the shaft 372 and the shaft 372 can be
configured to rotate relative to the bearings 374a and 374b. In
certain embodiments, the followers 378a, 378b can be mounted to the
shaft 372 such that the followers 378a, 378b can rotate relative to
the shaft 372. In either event, such embodiments can permit the
relative rotational movement between the planar cover portion and
the followers 378a, 378b of the lower lid panel 304.
[0105] In order to open the bi-fold lid 300, further to the above,
an operator of the instrument reprocessor 1 can apply a force to
the lower lid panel 304 which tends to slide the followers 378a,
378b along their respective guide rails 376a, 376b. In certain
embodiments, the instrument reprocessor 1 can further comprise a
system which can assist the operator in opening the lid 300. In at
least one such embodiment, the instrument reprocessor 1 can further
comprise a motor and a belt drive system, for example, which can be
configured to pull the followers 378a, 378b upwardly. Referring
primarily to FIG. 18, the endoscope reprocessor 1 can include a
motor 350, a drive pulley 352 operably engaged with a drive shaft
of the motor 350, and a belt 356 which can be operably engaged with
the shaft 358, discussed above, such that, when the drive pulley
352 is rotated by the motor 350, the shaft 358 also rotates. In at
least one such embodiment, the shaft 358 can include a pulley 354
mounted thereto which can be driven by the belt 356. Although a
belt drive system is disclosed herein, any other suitable drive
system could be used, such as a chain drive system including a
chain and drive sprockets, for example. In certain embodiments, the
shaft 358 also may include pulleys 360a and 360b mounted thereto on
opposite sides thereof which can be configured to rotate with the
shaft 358. In various embodiments, the pulleys 360a, 360b can be
part of a second belt drive system which can be operably engaged
with the followers 378a and 378b. In at least one such embodiment,
the instrument reprocessor 1 can comprise, one, a shaft 359
rotatably mounted to the frame 60 by bearings 384a and 384b and,
two, pulleys 362a and 362 mounted to opposite ends of the shaft
359, wherein pulley 362a can be operably coupled to pulley 360a by
belt 364a and wherein pulley 362b can be operably coupled to the
pulley 360b by belt 364b. In such embodiments, the follower 378a
can comprise a connector portion 370a mounted to the belt 364a such
that, when the belt 364a is driven by the motor 350, the belt 364a
can pull the follower 378a upwardly and, similarly, the follower
378b can comprise a connector portion 370b mounted to the belt 364b
such that, when the belt 364b is driven by the motor 350, the belt
364b can pull the follower 378b. In various embodiments, the belt
drives positioned on opposite sides of the basin 102 can be
symmetrical, or at least substantially symmetrical, such that the
followers 378a and 378b can be pulled upwardly in unison to open
the lid 300. Correspondingly, the motor 350 may be driven in the
opposite direction, or reversed, in order to pull the followers
378a and 378b downwardly in unison in to close the lid 300.
[0106] As discussed above, the lid 300 can be moved between a first
position in which the upper lid panel 302 and the lower lid panel
304 are substantially flat into a second, folded position. In
various embodiments, the upper lid panel 302 and the lower lid
panel 304 can lie in a plane when the lid 300 is in a closed
position. In such circumstances, however, the upper lid panel 302
and the lower lid panel 304 may resist being moved into their
folded position. More specifically, the upper lid panel 302 and the
lower lid panel 304 can be aligned in an end-to-end, or columnar,
arrangement wherein a force F transmitted to the lower lid panel
304 via the drive system described above, for example, the force F
would act straight through the column and may not act to rotate the
lid panels 302 and 304 relative to each other. Potentially, the
upper lid panel 302 and lower lid panel 304 may be arranged in a
position which is slightly past a planar orientation, wherein the
edges of the panels 302, 304 closest to the pins 340a and 340b are
closer to the frame 60 than the ends of the panels 302, 304 nearest
the bearings 380a, 380b and 374a, 374b, respectively. Stated
another way, in such circumstances, the lid panels 302 and 304 can
be in a phase lock which could prevent the lid panels 302, 304 from
moving into their open positions or possibly require applying an
excessive force to do so. As described in greater detail below, the
instrument reprocessor 1 can comprise a system which can bias the
door 300 into an at least partially open position, thereby
potentially avoiding these conditions.
[0107] In various embodiments, further to the above, the instrument
reprocessor 1 can further comprise one or more actuators, such as
rotatable cams 310a and 310b, for example, which can be configured
to bias the door 300 into a partially-open position, as illustrated
in FIGS. 23-26. Such cams, in various embodiments, can also be
configured to lock the door 300 in its closed position. In at least
one such embodiment, a first cam 310a can be disposed on the first
side of the basin 102 and a second cam 310b can be disposed on the
second side of the basin 102. Referring primarily to FIG. 31, the
cam 310a can include a locking finger 324a which defines a locking
channel 326a configured to receive the hinge pin 340a therein.
Similarly, the cam 310b can include a locking finger 324b which
defines a locking channel 326b configured to receive the hinge pin
340b therein. In use, the cams 310a, 310b can be rotated into a
locked position, as illustrated in FIG. 31, in which the sidewalls
of the locking channels 326a, 326b can prevent the pins 340a, 340b,
from rising upwardly from the surface frame 60. In such
circumstances, the lid panels 302, 304 may be pressed against the
basin rim 104 and may not be movable between their closed
configuration and an open configuration. In various embodiments,
the basin rim 104 and/or the lid panels 302, 304 may include a
compressible seal which can be configured to permit the lid panels
302, 304 to sealingly engage the basin rim 104 and inhibit fluids
from passing there between.
[0108] In various circumstances, further to the above, the cams
310a and 310b can be rotated out of their locked positions. In at
least one embodiment, the cam 310a may include a pulley 318 fixedly
mounted thereto which can be driven by an electric motor 312 via a
belt and pulley systems including pulleys 314, 316, 319 and belts
320, 322. More specifically, the pulley 314 can be connected to a
driveshaft of the motor 312 wherein the belt 320 can be driven by
pulley 314. Correspondingly, the pulley 319 can be fixedly mounted
to and rotate with pulley 316, and the belt 320 can drive the
pulleys 316 and 319. The belt 322 can be operably engaged with the
pulley 319 and the pulley 318 such that the rotation of the pulley
319 by belt 320 can drive belt 322 and rotate the pulley 318 and
the cam 310a mounted thereto. In various embodiments, the motor 312
can also be configured to rotate the cam 310b. In at least one
embodiment, the pulleys 316, 319 can be mounted to a first end of a
shaft 222 which can extend behind the basin cavity 102 and can be
rotatably supported by bearings 386a and 386b, for example. In at
least one such embodiment, a pulley 334 can be mounted to the
opposite, or second, end of the shaft 322 which can be rotated by
the shaft 322. Similar to the above, the cam 310b can include a
pulley 338 which can be operably engaged with the pulley 334 via a
belt 336. As a result of the above, the motor 312 can drive the
shaft 322 which can rotate the cams 310a and 310b into and out of
their locked positions. In various embodiments, the belt and pulley
system which operably connects the first cam 310a to the shaft 322
can be identical, or at least substantially identical, to the belt
and pulley system which operably connects the second cam 310b to
the shaft 322. In at least one such embodiment, the pulley 319 can
have the same diameter as the pulley 334 and, in addition, the
pulley 318 can have the same diameter as the pulley 338 such that
cams 310a and 310b rotate in unison.
[0109] When the cams 310a, 310b are rotated out of their locked
positions, the pins 340a, 340b may no longer be positioned within
the locking channels 326a, 326b, respectively, thus permitting the
lid 300 to be moved into an open position, as discussed above. In
various embodiments, referring now to FIGS. 32 and 33, the cams
310a, 310b can be configured to move the lid 300 into an at least
partially-open position. In at least one such embodiment, the cams
310a, 310b can each comprise an eccentric lobe including an outer
perimeter which can be configured to engage the pins 340a, 340b,
respectively, and drive the pins 340a, 340b upwardly, i.e., away
from the basin frame 60. With regard to the eccentric lobe and
outer perimeter of the cam 310a, the cam 310a can comprise a
smaller-radius portion 328a and a larger-radius portion 330a. In at
least one such embodiment, the pin 340a can be configured to rest
against the outer perimeter of the cam 310a such that the pin 340a
follows the contour of the outer perimeter of the cam 310a. In
various circumstances, the weight of the lid 300, for example, can
bias the pin 340a against the outer perimeter of the cam 310a.
Referring again to FIG. 32, it can be seen that, when the pin 340a
is positioned against the smaller-radius portion 328a of the cam
310a, the lid 300 may still lie in a closed, but unlocked, position
against the frame 60. As the cam 310a is rotated from its position
illustrated in FIG. 32, the larger-radius portion 330a may rotate
into contact with the pin 340a. At such point, referring to FIG.
33, the cam 310a may lift the pin 340a and a portion of the lid
300, away from the frame 60. In various embodiments, the outer
perimeter of the cam 310a can comprise a continuous surface which
increases in radius with respect to an axis of rotation of the cam
310a between the smaller-radius portion 328a and the larger-radius
portion 330a.
[0110] With regard to the eccentric lobe and outer perimeter of the
cam 310b, the cam 310b can comprise a smaller-radius portion 328b
and a larger-radius portion 330b. In at least one such embodiment,
the pin 340b can be configured to rest against the outer perimeter
of the cam 310b such that the pin 340b follows the contour of the
outer perimeter of the cam 310b. In various circumstances, the
weight of the lid 300, for example, can bias the pin 340b against
the outer perimeter of the cam 310b. Referring again to FIG. 32, it
can be seen that, when the pin 340b is positioned against the
smaller-radius portion 328b of the cam 310b, the lid 300 may still
lie in a closed, but unlocked, position against the frame 60. As
the cam 310b is rotated from its position illustrated in FIG. 32,
the larger-radius portion 330b may rotate into contact with the pin
340b. At such point, referring to FIG. 33, the cam 310b may lift
the pin 340b and a portion of the lid 300, away from the frame 60.
In various embodiments, the outer perimeter of the cam 310b can
comprise a continuous surface which increases in radius with
respect to an axis of rotation of the cam 310b between the
smaller-radius portion 328b and the larger-radius portion 330b. In
various embodiments, the eccentric lobes and outer perimeters of
the cams 310a and 310b can be identical, or at least substantially
identical, to one another wherein the cams 310a and 310b can be
moved synchronously. In various embodiments, the cams 310a, 310b
can each comprise a stop, such as stops 410a, 410b, for example,
which can be configured to contact the pins 340a, 340b,
respectively, and define the ends of the outer drive perimeters of
the cams 310a, 310b.
[0111] In view of the above, the cams 310a and 310b can be
configured to apply a lifting force to an intermediate portion of
the lid 300. Stated another way, the lifting force is being applied
to the lid 300 at a location positioned intermediate the top and
bottom ends of the lid 300. In various embodiments, the instrument
reprocessor 1 can comprise an actuator, which can be actuated by an
operator of the instrument reprocessor 1, which can be configured
to operate the motor 312 and rotate the cams 310a, 310. In at least
one embodiment, the instrument reprocessor 1 can comprise a
computer, or a controller, which can be instructed to at least
partially open the lid. Such an instruction may be provided by
actuating a switch, button, pedal, lever, and/or a computer icon on
a touch screen (not shown), for example. Once the lid 300 has been
at least partially opened, the lid 300 can be moved to its
fully-opened position, as described above. When the lid 300 is
moved between its partially-opened position and its fully-open
position, the pins 340a and 340b can be lifted away from and may no
longer contact the cams 310a and 310b. To close the lid 300, a
manual closing force, or a closing force generated by motor 350,
for example, can be utilized to pull the lower lid panel 304
downwardly into its closed position. More specifically, further to
the above, the motor 350 can be operated to drive the belt and
pulley systems discussed above in an opposite direction to thereby
pull the connector portions 370a and 370b downwardly to position
the lower lid panel 374 in its closed position. As the lower lid
panel 304 is pulled into its closed position, the upper lid panel
302 can be pulled into its closed position via forces transmitted
thereto via the hinge pins 340a, 340b connecting the lower lid
panel 304 and the upper lid panel 302. In such a position, the pins
340a, 340b, may be in contact with the cams 310a, 310b once again.
In order to lock the lid 300 in its closed position, the cams 310a
and 310b can be rotated in an opposite direction such that the pins
340a and 340b can re-enter the lock channels 326a and 326b,
respectively, and be driven into their closed position by the cams
310a, 310b.
[0112] FIG. 33a shows cam 310a removed from the bi-fold door 300.
The cam 310a includes aperture 333a to accommodate a shaft (not
shown) on which the pulley 318 is mounted. The cam 310a also may
include a second aperture 335, which may engage a peg (not shown)
or other feature on the pulley 318 to ensure that the cam 310a and
the pulley 318 rotate in unison, as described above. Cam 310a also
optionally includes a detent 329a arranged in the locking finger
324a in the locking channel 326a and a detent 331a arranged in the
larger-radius portion 330a of the cam surface. The detent 329a is
configured to engage the pin 340a when the pin 340a is positioned
in the locking channel 326a. Similarly, the detent 331a is
configured to engage the pin 340a when the pin 340a is positioned
at an end of the larger-radius portion 330a of the cam 310a near
stop 410a. The detents 329a and 331a can each provide equilibrium
locations on the cam 310a, wherein, when positioned in a detent
329a or 331a, the pin 340a and the cam 310a may be inhibited from
relative movement therebetween. The detent 329a in the locking
channel 326a maintains the pin 340a in the locked position.
Likewise, the detent 331a maintains the pin 340a in the partially
open position. In various circumstances, a higher power output from
motor 312 may be required to move the cam 310a relative to the pin
340a from the detents 329a and 331a than is required to move the
cam 310a relative to the pin 340a at other portions of the cam 310a
surface, such as, for example, moving the cam 310a relative to the
pin 340a in a region of the cam 310a surface between the
smaller-radius portion 328a and the larger radius portion 330a. Cam
310b may include corresponding detent features.
[0113] While rotatable cams configured to open, close, and/or lock
the lid 300 have been discussed herein in detail, other actuators
for opening, closing, and/or locking the lid 300 may be utilized.
In various embodiments, an instrument reprocessor 1 can comprise
one or more linear actuators which can be configured to bias the
lid 300 into an open position. In at least such embodiment, a first
linear actuator could be configured to apply a biasing force to the
pin 340a while a second linear actuator could be configured to
apply a biasing force to the pin 340b. In at least one such
embodiment, the first and second linear actuators could be actuated
simultaneously.
[0114] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to instrument reprocessors
comprising a basin. The basin may comprise a bottom surface, a rim,
and a sidewall connecting the bottom surface and the rim. The rim
of the basin may be located in an inclined plane forming an acute
angle with respect to the horizontal plane. At least one lateral
nozzle may be located on the sidewall of the basin and disposed in
a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane. The lateral
nozzle may be configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a
direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane. Various
embodiments disclosed and described in this specification are also
directed, in part, to a method for reprocessing an instrument, such
as, for example, an endoscope. The method may comprise positioning
an instrument in a basin in an instrument reprocessor, such as, for
example, an instrument reprocessor as described in this
specification.
[0115] As used in this specification, the term "horizontal plane"
refers to any plane parallel to the base of an instrument
reprocessor, as described in this specification. As used in this
specification, the term "acute angle" refers to an angle greater
than 0.0 degrees (0.0 radians) and less than 90.0 degrees (.pi./2
radians) with respect to a reference plane such as, for example,
the horizontal plane. An acute angle may range from 0.0 degrees to
90.0 degrees, exclusive, or any sub-range subsumed therein, such
as, for example, 5.0.degree. to 85.0.degree., 10.0.degree. to
80.0.degree., 15.0.degree. to 75.0.degree., 20.0.degree. to
70.0.degree., 25.0.degree. to 65.0.degree., 30.0.degree. to
60.0.degree., 35.0.degree. to 55.0.degree., 40.0.degree. to
50.0.degree., and any sub-range comprising a minimum value and a
maximum value selected from any of the above-described values.
[0116] As used in this specification, the term "inclined plane"
refers to a plane forming an acute angle with respect to the
horizontal plane. As used in this specification, the term
"substantially," when used to describe a plane or a direction as
being parallel or perpendicular to a reference plane such as, for
example, a horizontal plane or an inclined plane, means.+-.5.0
degrees (.+-..pi./36 radians) from a parallel or perpendicular
orientation. As used in this specification, the term "stream"
refers to a fluid or fluid-carried substance, including, for
example, liquids, gases, solutions, dispersions, suspensions,
slurries, mists, vapors, and the like. As used in this
specification, the term "disposed in a/the plane," when used to
describe a nozzle, refers to the orientation of the nozzle with
respect to the specified plane so that a stream discharged from the
nozzle has at least an initial trajectory parallel to the specified
plane. It is understood, however, that a nozzle disposed in a
specified plane is not necessarily located in any specific
position, provided that a stream discharged from the nozzle has at
least an initial trajectory parallel to the specified plane.
Accordingly, the specific positioning of a nozzle disposed in a
specified plane and configured to discharge a stream in a direction
substantially parallel to the plane will be determined without
limitation by the specific construction of the nozzle.
[0117] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of various nozzles with respect to an inclined plane.
The system illustrated in FIG. 34 may comprise an instrument
reprocessor as described in this specification, for example. The
inclined plane 710 forms an acute angle .theta. with respect to the
horizontal plane 720. Lateral nozzles 730a and 730b are disposed in
the inclined plane 710. The inclined plane 710 may be substantially
parallel to an inclined plane in which the rim 702 of a basin (not
shown) is located. The lateral nozzles 730a and 730b may be located
on the sidewall of a basin (refer to FIG. 39, for example). As
indicated by arrows 732a and 732b, the lateral nozzles 730a and
730b, respectively, are configured to discharge streams in
directions that are substantially parallel to the inclined plane
710.
[0118] It is understood that a stream discharged from a nozzle will
have a non-linear trajectory because of the influence of gravity on
the material comprising the stream, for example. Accordingly, it is
understood that the term "configured to discharge a stream in a
direction," as used in this specification to describe a nozzle,
refers to the initial trajectory vector of the discharged stream,
which is established by the location and disposition of the
specified nozzle. Thus, as described in this specification, a
nozzle disposed in a specified plane will discharge a stream in a
direction that is substantially parallel to the specified plane
and, therefore, the initial trajectory vector of the discharged
stream will be substantially parallel to the specified plane
notwithstanding that the downstream trajectory of the stream will
deviate from the specified plane due to the influence of gravity,
for example. This is illustrated in FIG. 36, which provides a
schematic diagram showing a nozzle 630 disposed in a plane 610. As
indicated by arrow 632, the nozzle 630 is configured to discharge a
stream in a direction that is substantially parallel to the plane
610, i.e., having an initial trajectory vector that is
substantially parallel to the plane 610 and a downstream trajectory
indicated by arrow 634, the downstream trajectory deviating from
the plane 610 due to the influence of gravity, for example.
[0119] Referring again to FIG. 34, a multi-outlet nozzle 740
comprises an orthogonal outlet 742 and an oblique outlet 744. It is
understood that the multi-outlet nozzle 740 could comprise
additional outlets disposed in any orientation. It is also
understood that the system illustrated in FIG. 34 could comprise
two separate nozzles, i.e., an orthogonal nozzle and a separate
oblique nozzle. It is also understood that the system illustrated
in FIG. 34 could comprise one or more additional multi-outlet
nozzles 740 and/or one or more additional separate orthogonal
nozzles and/or oblique nozzles. The multi-outlet nozzle 740 may be
located on the bottom surface or a sidewall of a basin (refer to
FIG. 39, for example). For clarity, the descriptions and
illustrations provided in this specification disclose embodiments
comprising a multi-outlet nozzle; however, a person having ordinary
skill in the art reading this specification will appreciate that
various alternative embodiments within the scope of the description
may comprise separate orthogonal and oblique nozzles instead of or
in addition to the described and illustrated multi-outlet
nozzle.
[0120] The orthogonal outlet 742 is disposed in a plane
substantially perpendicular to the inclined plane 710. As indicated
by arrow 746, the orthogonal outlet 742 is configured to discharge
a stream in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the
inclined plane 710 as indicated at 750.
[0121] The oblique outlet 744 is disposed in a plane forming an
acute angle .theta.' with respect to the inclined plane 710. As
indicated by arrow 748, the oblique outlet 744 is configured to
discharge a stream in a direction that forms an acute angle
.theta.' with respect to the inclined plane 710. As shown in FIG.
34, the oblique outlet 744 is disposed in a plane that is also
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 720 and, therefore,
the acute angles .theta. and .theta.' are substantially equal
(i.e., to within .+-.5.0 degrees). It is understood, however, that
the oblique outlet 744 may be disposed in a plane that is not
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 720, in which
embodiments, the acute angles .theta. and .theta.' would not be
substantially equal.
[0122] The system illustrated in FIG. 34 comprises two lateral
nozzles 730a and 730b; however, it is understood that the system
could comprise one, two, or more lateral nozzles disposed in the
inclined plane 710. The system illustrated in FIG. 34 shows the
lateral nozzles 730a and 730b in a co-planar orientation with
respect to the inclined plane 710; however, it is understood that
the lateral nozzles 730a and 730b may be disposed in separate
inclined planes that each form an acute angle, which may be the
same angle or different angles, with respect to the horizontal
plane 720. For example, two or more lateral nozzles may be disposed
in separate inclined planes, each inclined plane forming
substantially the same acute angle with respect to the horizontal
plane. In such embodiments, the lateral nozzles are disposed in
substantially parallel inclined planes that are off-set from each
other by a distance along a direction perpendicular to the inclined
planes. This is illustrated in FIG. 37, which provides a schematic
diagram showing nozzles 530a and 530b disposed in inclined planes
510a and 510b, respectively.
[0123] As indicated by arrow 532a, the nozzle 530a is configured to
discharge a stream in a direction that is substantially parallel to
the inclined plane 510a. As indicated by arrow 532b, the nozzle
530b is configured to discharge a stream in a direction that is
substantially parallel to the inclined plane 510b. The inclined
planes 510a and 510b both form substantially the same acute angle
.theta. with respect to the horizontal plane 520. The inclined
planes 510a and 510b are off-set from each other by a distance (d)
along a direction perpendicular to the inclined planes.
[0124] Two or more lateral nozzles may be disposed in separate
inclined planes that each form different acute angles with respect
to the horizontal plane. This is illustrated in FIG. 38, which
provides a schematic diagram showing nozzles 430a and 430b disposed
in inclined planes 410a and 410b, respectively. As indicated by
arrow 432a, the nozzle 430a is configured to discharge a stream in
a direction that is substantially parallel to the inclined plane
410a. As indicated by arrow 432b, the nozzle 430b is configured to
discharge a stream in a direction that is substantially parallel to
the inclined plane 410b. The inclined planes 410a and 410b form
different acute angles .theta..sub.a and .theta..sub.b,
respectively, with respect to the horizontal plane 420.
[0125] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram illustrating the relative
orientation of various nozzles with respect to an inclined plane.
The system illustrated in FIG. 35 may be an instrument reprocessor
as described in this specification, for example. The inclined plane
810 forms an acute angle .theta. with respect to the horizontal
plane 820. Lateral nozzles 830a, 830b, 830c, and 830d are disposed
in the inclined plane 810. The inclined plane 810 may be
substantially parallel to an inclined plane in which the rim of a
basin is located (refer to FIG. 39, for example). The lateral
nozzles 830a, 830b, 830c, and 830d may be located on the sidewall
of a basin (refer to FIG. 39, for example). As indicated by arrows
832a, 832b, 832c, and 832d, the lateral nozzles 830a, 830b, 830c,
and 830d, respectively, are configured to discharge streams in
directions that are substantially parallel to the inclined plane
810.
[0126] A multi-outlet nozzle 840 comprises an orthogonal outlet 842
and an oblique outlet 844. It is understood that the multi-outlet
nozzle 840 could comprise additional outlets disposed in any
orientation. It is also understood that the system illustrated in
FIG. 35 could comprise two separate nozzles, i.e., an orthogonal
nozzle and a separate oblique nozzle. It is also understood that
the system illustrated in FIG. 35 could comprise one or more
additional multi-outlet nozzles 840 and/or one or more additional
separate orthogonal nozzles and/or oblique nozzles. For clarity,
the descriptions and illustrations provided in this specification
disclose embodiments comprising a multi-outlet nozzle; however, a
person having ordinary skill in the art reading this specification
will appreciate that various alternative embodiments within the
scope of the description may comprise separate orthogonal and
oblique nozzles instead of or in addition to the described and
illustrated multi-outlet nozzle. The multi-outlet nozzle 840 may be
located on the bottom surface of a basin (refer to FIG. 40, for
example).
[0127] The orthogonal outlet 842 is disposed in a plane
substantially perpendicular to the inclined plane 810. As indicated
by arrow 846, the orthogonal outlet 842 is configured to discharge
a stream in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the
inclined plane 810 as indicated at 850.
[0128] The oblique outlet 844 is disposed in a plane forming an
acute angle with respect to the inclined plane 810. As indicated by
arrow 848, the oblique outlet 844 is configured to discharge a
stream in a direction that forms an acute angle .theta.' with
respect to the inclined plane 810. As shown in FIG. 35, the oblique
outlet 844 is disposed in a plane that is also substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane 820 and, therefore, the acute
angles .theta. and .theta.' are substantially equal (i.e., to
within .+-.5.0 degrees). It is understood, however, that the
oblique outlet 844 may be disposed in a plane that is not
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 820, in which
embodiments, the acute angles .theta. and .theta.' would not be
substantially equal.
[0129] The system illustrated in FIG. 35 comprises four lateral
nozzles 830a, 830b, 830c, and 830d; however, it is understood that
the system could comprise one, two, three, four, or more lateral
nozzles disposed in the inclined plane 810. The system illustrated
in FIG. 35 shows the lateral nozzles 830a, 830b, 830c, and 830d in
a co-planar orientation with respect to the inclined plane 810;
however, it is understood that the lateral nozzles 830a, 830b,
830c, and 830d, or any sub-combinations thereof, may be disposed in
separate inclined planes that each form an acute angle, which may
be the same angle or different angles, with respect to the
horizontal plane 820. See, for example, FIGS. 37 and 38, described
above.
[0130] FIGS. 39 through 43 show various views of the basin
component of an instrument reprocessor as described in this
specification. The basin shown in FIGS. 39 through 43 may be
substantially the same as the basin described above and shown in
connection with FIGS. 7 through 10.
[0131] As shown in FIGS. 39 through 43, a non-limiting embodiment
of an instrument reprocessor comprises a basin 900. The basin 900
comprises a rim 902 and a bottom surface 904. The bottom surface
904 of the basin 900 comprises a plurality of bottom surface
segments or portions 904a, 904b, and 904c. The basin 900 comprises
sidewalls 906. The sidewalls 906 connect the bottom surface 904 and
the rim 902. The rim 902 is located in an inclined plane 910. The
inclined plane 910 forms an acute angle .theta. with respect to the
horizontal plane 920.
[0132] An instrument reprocessor also comprises lateral nozzles
930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d. The lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c,
and 930d are located on the sidewall 906 of the basin 900. The
lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d are disposed in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane 910. As indicated by
arrows 932a, 932b, 932c, and 932d, the lateral nozzles 930a, 930b,
930c, and 930d, respectively, are configured to discharge streams
in directions that are substantially parallel to the inclined plane
910. As shown in FIG. 41, the sidewall 906 of the basin 900 is
generally rectangular-shaped and the sidewall 906 comprises four
sides and four corners. The lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and
930d are respectively located at the four corners of the sidewall
906, disposed in a plane generally parallel to the inclined plane
910, and configured to discharge streams into the basin 900 in
directions that are generally parallel to the inclined plane 910.
Thus, the lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d are disposed
in a co-planar orientation in which the coincident plane is
generally parallel to the inclined plane 910. Likewise, the lateral
nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d are configured to discharge
streams into the basin 900 in directions that are co-planar and
parallel to the inclined plane 910.
[0133] The bottom surface 904 of the basin 900 comprises a
plurality of bottom surface segments 904a, 904b, and 904c. The
bottom surface segments 904a, 904b, and 904c form different angles
with respect to the horizontal plane 920. The bottom surface
segment 904a is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the
horizontal plane 920 and is substantially parallel to the inclined
plane 910 that includes the rim 902 of the basin 900. The bottom
surface segment 904b is substantially perpendicular to the
horizontal plane 920. The bottom surface segment 904c is
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. The bottom surface
segment 904c comprises a drain 960 positioned through the bottom
surface segment 904c.
[0134] The bottom surface segments 904a, 904b, and 904c are shown
and described as planar-shaped portions of the bottom surface 904,
which each form a different angle with respect to the horizontal
plane. It is understood that the bottom surface of a basin is not
limited to this configuration and may comprise, for example, one,
two, three, or more planar surface segments or portions forming
different angles with respect to the horizontal plane and that
comprise the bottom surface of a basin. Alternatively, or in
addition, the bottom surface of a basin of an instrument
reprocessor as described in this specification may comprise a
curved or contoured shape or segments/portions comprising a curved
or contoured shape. For example, the bottom surface of a basin may
comprise a convex shape, a concave shape, or a combination of
convex and concave shapes that form a complex surface contour.
Likewise, the bottom surface of a basin may comprise a combination
of planar-shaped, concave-shaped, and/or convex-shaped surface
segments/portions that form a complex surface contour.
[0135] An instrument reprocessor also comprises a multi-outlet
nozzle 940. The multi-outlet nozzle is located on the bottom
surface segment 904b. The multi-outlet nozzle 940 comprises two
outlets configured to discharge a stream into the basin 900. The
multi-outlet nozzle 940 comprises an orthogonal outlet 942 and an
oblique outlet 944. It is understood that the multi-outlet nozzle
940 could comprise additional outlets disposed in any orientation.
It is also understood that instrument reprocessor could comprise
two separate nozzles, i.e., an orthogonal nozzle and a separate
oblique nozzle instead or in addition to the multi-outlet nozzle
940. It is also understood that an instrument reprocessor could
comprise one or more additional multi-outlet nozzles 940 and/or one
or more additional separate orthogonal nozzles and/or oblique
nozzles. For clarity, the descriptions and illustrations provided
in this specification disclose embodiments comprising a
multi-outlet nozzle; however, a person having ordinary skill in the
art reading this specification will appreciate that various
alternative embodiments within the scope of the description may
comprise separate orthogonal and oblique nozzles instead of or in
addition to the described and illustrated multi-outlet nozzle.
[0136] The multi-outlet nozzle 940 is shown and described as being
located on the bottom surface segment 904b. It is understood that
the nozzle configuration of a basin of an instrument reprocessor is
not limited to this configuration. For example, one or more
multi-outlet nozzles may be located on any portion or segment of
the bottom surface of the basin. Alternatively, or in addition, one
or more multi-outlet nozzles may be located on any portion or
segment of the sidewall of the basin, provided that the nozzles
discharge streams in a direction substantially perpendicular to the
inclined plane containing the rim of the basin and in a direction
that forms an acute angle with respect to the inclined plane.
[0137] The orthogonal outlet 942 is disposed in a plane
substantially perpendicular to the inclined plane 910. As indicated
by arrow 946, the orthogonal outlet 942 is configured to discharge
a stream in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the
inclined plane 910.
[0138] The oblique outlet 944 is disposed in a plane forming an
acute angle with respect to the inclined plane 910. As indicated by
arrow 948, the oblique outlet 944 is configured to discharge a
stream in a direction that forms an acute angle with respect to the
inclined plane 910. The oblique outlet 944 is disposed in a plane
that is also substantially parallel to the horizontal plane 920
and, therefore, the acute angle of the inclined plane 910 and the
acute angle formed between the inclined plane and the oblique
outlet 944 are substantially equal (i.e., to within .+-.5.0
degrees). It is understood, however, that the oblique outlet 944
may be disposed in a plane that is not substantially parallel to
the horizontal plane 920, in which embodiments, the respective
acute angles would not be substantially equal.
[0139] The basin and nozzle assembly illustrated in FIGS. 39
through 43 comprises four lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and
930d; however, it is understood that the assembly could comprise
one, two, three, four, or more lateral nozzles. The basin and
nozzle assembly illustrated in FIGS. 39 through 43 shows the
lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d in a co-planar
orientation with respect to the inclined plane 910; however, it is
understood that the lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d, or
any sub-combinations thereof, may be disposed in separate inclined
planes that each form an acute angle, which may be the same angle
or different angles, with respect to the horizontal plane 920. See,
for example, FIGS. 37 and 38, described above.
[0140] FIGS. 44 through 47 show various views of the basin
component of an instrument reprocessor supporting a removable
carrier as described in this specification. The basin shown in
FIGS. 44 through 47 may be substantially the same as the basin
described above and shown in connection with FIGS. 30 through 43.
The carrier shown in FIGS. 44 through 47 may be substantially the
same as the carrier described above and shown in connection with
FIGS. 11 through 16.
[0141] Referring to FIGS. 44 through 47, the lateral nozzles 930a,
930b, 930c, and 930d are connected to lateral ports 970a, 970b,
970c, and 970d, respectively. The lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c,
and 930d connect to the lateral ports 970a, 970b, 970c, and 970d
through respective openings in the sidewall 906 of the basin 900.
The multi-outlet nozzle 940 is connected to a multi-inlet port 980.
The multi-outlet nozzle 940 connects to the multi-inlet port 980
through an opening in the bottom surface segment 904b of the basin
900.
[0142] The lateral nozzles, the multi-inlet nozzles, and/or the
separate orthogonal and oblique nozzles comprising the basin and
nozzle assembly of an instrument reprocessor, as described in this
specification, are connected through corresponding ports to fluid
lines that supply the streams discharged by the nozzles, for
example, liquids, gases, solutions, dispersions, suspensions,
slurries, mists, vapors, and the like. The fluid supply lines
connected to the nozzles through corresponding ports are also
connected to a fluid supply system that controls the discharge of
the streams from the nozzles into the basin. For example, the
nozzles comprising the basin and nozzle assembly of an instrument
reprocessor, as described in this specification, may be connected
to sources of water, detergents, disinfectant solutions, air,
and/or the like. In this manner, the nozzles are configured to
discharge water, detergents, disinfectant solutions, air, and/or
the like, during different cycles of an instrument reprocessing
operation. In various non-limited embodiments, the nozzles
comprising the basin and nozzle assembly of an instrument
reprocessor, as described in this specification, may be connected
to a delivery system, dosing system, and/or an independent
monitoring system as described in the contemporaneously-filed,
co-owned U.S. patent application entitled INSTRUMENT REPROCESSOR
AND INSTRUMENT REPROCESSING METHODS, Attorney Docket No. 110514,
the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference into
this specification.
[0143] The basin 900 is configured to support a removable carrier
220 positioned in the basin 900. When positioned in the basin 900,
the removable carrier 220 is disposed in a plane substantially
parallel to the inclined plane 910, as shown in FIGS. 44 through
46. The carrier 220 is configured to position an instrument, such
as, for example, an endoscope, in the basin 900 so that the
instrument (not shown) is disposed in a plane substantially
parallel to the inclined plane 910. In this manner, an instrument
contained in the carrier 220 is disposed in a plane substantially
parallel to the inclined plane 910 when the carrier 220 (containing
the instrument) is positioned in the basin 900 and the carrier 220
is disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane
910.
[0144] The lateral nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, and 930d, and the
multi-outlet nozzle 940 (and/or separate orthogonal and oblique
nozzles, not shown), are configured to discharge streams into the
basin 900 that impinge upon an instrument (not shown), such as, for
example, an endoscope, when the instrument is contained in the
removable carrier 220 and positioned in the basin 900 in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane 910 so that the
instrument (e.g., endoscope) forms an acute angle with respect to
the horizontal plane. The impinging streams discharged from the
nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, 930d, and 940 may comprise water,
detergent, disinfectant solution, air, and/or the like.
[0145] For example, the nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, 930d, and 940 may
discharge water as a stream that impinges upon an instrument (e.g.,
an endoscope, not shown) contained in the carrier 220 and
positioned in the basin 900 to rinse blood and/or other body wastes
from the outer surfaces of the instrument. The nozzles 930a, 930b,
930c, 930d, and 940 may discharge a liquid detergent as a stream
that impinges upon an instrument (e.g., an endoscope, not shown)
contained in the carrier 220 and positioned in the basin 900 to
clean the outer surfaces of the instrument of residual blood and/or
other body wastes. The nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, 930d, and 940 may
discharge a disinfectant as a stream that impinges upon an
instrument (e.g., an endoscope, not shown) contained in the carrier
220 and positioned in the basin 900 to disinfect the outer surfaces
of the instrument. The nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, 930d, and 940 may
discharge water as a stream that impinges upon an instrument (e.g.,
an endoscope, not shown) contained in the carrier 220 and
positioned in the basin 900 to rinse residual liquid detergent
and/or disinfectant solution. The nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c, 930d,
and 940 may discharge air or another gas as a stream that impinges
upon an instrument (e.g., an endoscope, not shown) contained in the
carrier 220 and positioned in the basin 900 to dry the instrument
after a reprocessing cycle in which the nozzles discharged water,
liquid detergent, and/or disinfectant solution.
[0146] The streams discharged by the nozzles and configured to
impinge upon an instrument (e.g., an endoscope) contained in a
carrier and positioned in a basin in an instrument reprocessor, as
described in this specification, may be controlled, collectively or
independently, to have predetermined discharge pressures, discharge
flow rates, discharge velocities, discharge volumes, and/or
discharge temperatures to effectively clean and/or disinfect the
instrument without submerging the instrument in a liquid. For
example, the streams discharged by the nozzles 930a, 930b, 930c,
930d, and 940 into the basin 900 may be configured to impinge upon
an instrument (e.g., an endoscope, not shown) contained in the
carrier 220 and positioned in the basin 900 in an instrument
reprocessor with collectively or independently controlled discharge
pressures, discharge flow rates, discharge velocities, discharge
volumes, and/or discharge temperatures to effectively clean and/or
disinfect the instrument, wherein the instrument is not submerged
in a liquid in the basin 900. In this manner, the discharged
streams impinge upon the instrument, which is suspended in the
basin 900 by the carrier 220 in an inclined orientation as
described above, and drain from the basin 900 through the drain 960
positioned through the bottom surface segment 904c, which prevents
that instrument from being submerged in liquid.
[0147] An instrument reprocessor comprising a basin and nozzle
assembly as described in this specification may also comprise a lid
assembly configured to close and seal the basin inside the
instrument reprocessor. In various non-limiting embodiments, a lid
may cover the basin in a closed configuration, thereby forming a
closed basin chamber. In the closed configuration, the lid may be
disposed in an inclined plane that is substantially parallel to the
inclined plane in which the rim of the basin is located. For
example, a bi-fold lid 300 as described in FIGS. 17 through 33,
when covering the basin 900 in a closed configuration, may be
disposed in an inclined plane that is substantially parallel to the
inclined plane 910 in which the rim 902 of the basin 900 is
located.
[0148] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to a method for reprocessing
an instrument, such as, for example, an endoscope. The method may
comprise positioning an instrument in a basin in an instrument
reprocessor. The instrument reprocessor may comprise an instrument
reprocessor as described in this specification. For example, the
basin may comprise a rim located in an inclined plane forming an
acute angle with respect to a horizontal plane.
[0149] The instrument may be positioned in the basin in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane and at the acute angle
with respect to the horizontal plane. The basin may be covered, for
example, with bi-fold lid as described in this specification,
thereby forming a closed basin chamber. One or more lateral streams
may be discharged into the basin in directions substantially
parallel to the inclined plane. The one or more lateral streams may
impinge onto the outer surfaces of the instrument to clean and/or
disinfect the outer surfaces of the instrument. The impinging
streams may drain from the closed basin chamber so that the
instrument is not submerged in liquid in the basin chamber during
reprocessing.
[0150] In various non-limiting embodiments, a method for
reprocessing an instrument may further comprise discharging an
orthogonal stream into the basin in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane. The orthogonal stream may
impinge onto the outer surfaces of the instrument to clean and/or
disinfect the outer surfaces of the instrument. Alternatively, or
in addition, a method for reprocessing an instrument may further
comprise discharging an oblique stream into the basin in a
direction that forms an acute angle with respect to the inclined
plane. For example, in various non-limiting embodiments, the
oblique stream may be discharged in a direction substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane. The oblique stream may impinge
onto outer surfaces of the instrument to clean and/or disinfect the
outer surfaces of the instrument. In various non-limiting
embodiments, one or more nozzles may discharge a stream that
impinges onto one or more surfaces of a closed basin chamber. For
example, one or more nozzles may impinge onto an inner surface of a
closed lid, which may disinfect and/or clean the inner surface of
the lid.
[0151] Positioning the instrument in the basin in a plane
substantially parallel to the inclined plane and at the acute angle
with respect to the horizontal plane may comprise positioning a
carrier containing the instrument in the basin. The carrier may be
positioned in the basin in a plane substantially parallel to the
inclined plane and at the acute angle with respect to the
horizontal plane. For example, a carrier 220 may be positioned in a
basin 900 as described in this specification in connection with
FIGS. 44 through 47.
[0152] Various embodiments disclosed and described in this
specification are directed, in part, to instrument reprocessors
comprising a basin. The basin may comprise a bottom surface, a rim,
and a sidewall connecting the bottom surface and the rim. The rim
of the basin may be located in an inclined plane forming an acute
angle with respect to the horizontal plane. At least one lateral
nozzle may be located on the sidewall of the basin and disposed in
a plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane. The lateral
nozzle may be configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a
direction substantially parallel to the inclined plane.
[0153] An instrument reprocessor may comprise a plurality of
lateral nozzles located on the sidewall of the basin. The lateral
nozzles located on the sidewall of the basin may be disposed in a
plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane. The lateral
nozzles located on the sidewall of the basin may be configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
parallel to the inclined plane. For example, an instrument
reprocessor may comprise at least four lateral nozzles located on
the sidewall of the basin, wherein the lateral nozzles are disposed
in a plane parallel to the inclined plane, and wherein the lateral
nozzles are configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a
direction parallel to the inclined plane. In various non-limiting
embodiments, the sidewall of the basin may be generally
rectangular-shaped and the sidewall may comprise four sides and
four corners. The at least four lateral nozzles may be respectively
located at the four corners of the sidewall, disposed in a plane
generally parallel to the inclined plane, and configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction generally parallel
to the inclined plane.
[0154] The bottom surface of the basin may comprise a plurality of
bottom surface segments or portions. The plurality of bottom
surface segments or portions may form different angles with respect
to the horizontal plane. For example, at least one segment or
portion of the bottom surface may be inclined at an acute angle
with respect to the horizontal plane. In various non-limiting
embodiments, a segment or portion of the bottom surface may be
inclined at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal plane so
that an inclined plane including the segment or portion is
substantially parallel to the inclined plane that includes the rim
of the basin. At least one segment or portion of the bottom surface
may be substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane. At
least one segment or portion of the bottom surface may be
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. In various
non-limiting embodiments, the bottom surface of the basin may
comprise at least one segment or portion inclined at an acute angle
with respect to the horizontal plane, at least one segment or
portion substantially perpendicular to the horizontal plane, and/or
at least one segment or portion substantially parallel to the
horizontal plane.
[0155] An instrument reprocessor may comprise an orthogonal nozzle.
The orthogonal nozzle may be located on the bottom surface or the
sidewall of the basin. The orthogonal nozzle may be disposed in a
plane substantially perpendicular to the inclined plane. The
orthogonal nozzle may be configured to discharge a stream into the
basin in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inclined
plane.
[0156] An instrument reprocessor may comprise an oblique nozzle.
The oblique nozzle may be located on the bottom surface or the
sidewall of the basin. The oblique nozzle may be disposed in a
plane forming an acute angle with the inclined plane. The oblique
nozzle may be configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a
direction forming an acute angle with the inclined plane. In
various non-limiting embodiments, an oblique nozzle may be disposed
in a plane substantially parallel to the horizontal plane and may
be configured to discharge a stream into the basin in a direction
substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.
[0157] In various non-limiting embodiments, an instrument
reprocessor may comprise an orthogonal nozzle and an oblique
nozzle. The orthogonal nozzle and the oblique nozzle may be located
on the bottom surface and/or the sidewall of the basin. The
orthogonal nozzle may be disposed in a plane substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane and may be configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane. The oblique nozzle may be
disposed in a plane forming an acute angle with the inclined plane,
such as, for example, the horizontal plane, and may be configured
to discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
parallel to the horizontal plane.
[0158] In various non-limiting embodiments, an instrument
reprocessor may comprise a multi-outlet nozzle. The multi-outlet
nozzle may be located on the bottom surface or the sidewall of the
basin. The multi-outlet nozzle may comprise two or more outlets
configured to discharge a stream into the basin. The two or more
outlets may comprise an orthogonal outlet and an oblique outlet.
The orthogonal outlet may be disposed in a plane substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane and may be configured to
discharge a stream into the basin in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the inclined plane. The oblique outlet may be
disposed in a horizontal plane and configured to discharge a stream
into the basin in a direction substantially parallel to the
horizontal plane.
[0159] An instrument reprocessor may comprise a basin configured to
support a removable carrier positioned in the basin. When
positioned in the basin, the removable carrier may be disposed in a
plane substantially parallel to the inclined plane and at an acute
angle with respect to the horizontal plane.
[0160] An instrument reprocessor may comprise-a removable carrier.
The basin of the instrument reprocessor may be configured to
support the carrier in the basin. When positioned in the basin, the
removable carrier may be disposed in a plane substantially parallel
to the inclined plane. The carrier may be configured to position an
instrument, such as, for example, endoscope, in the basin so that
the instrument is disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the
inclined plane and at an acute angle with respect to the horizontal
plane.
[0161] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in
whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference
herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the
incorporated materials do not conflict with existing definitions,
statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this
disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as
explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material
incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof,
that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which
conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other
disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to
the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated
material and the existing disclosure material.
[0162] While this invention has been described as having exemplary
designs, the present invention may be further modified within the
spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore
intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the
invention using its general principles. Further, this application
is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as
come within known or customary practice in the art to which this
invention pertains.
* * * * *